Eiler
,
16

Eiler’s trip to Arizona was an unforgettable weekend for the 16-year-old diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition. From a limo ride to a tour of an NFL locker room to hanging out with a few of his idols, Eiler’s wish to meet the Arizona Cardinals ended up being a weekend full of smiles and laughter.

To begin their wish adventure, Eiler and his family began at T.G.I Friday’s at Chase Field where Make-A-Wish® representative, Shoshana Simones, and Adam Richman, the Arizona Cardinals’ Community Relations Coordinator, greeted the family and shared about the extra special weekend ahead. From there, the family hopped into a limo for a quick ride to the stadium where Eiler received a goody bag of Cardinals' gear and was told to head down to the field. As Eiler made the trek to the bottom of the stadium, he could not contain his excitement when he began passing players he recognized. He was particularly eager to see Matt Shaughnessy because they share the same number, 91.

Eiler received a special tour of the locker room where wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald, surprised the teen with a pair of game-used gloves, a couple of signed footballs and even cleats. During his time with Larry, Eiler discovered that the two of them not only have an interest in football, but in video games and chess.

Eiler hung out, played around and joked with with the team during their practice and even he helped Coach Arians “break it down” in a huddle.

The weekend ended with the family receiving field passes to watch the team warm up before the big game. Before Eiler left to take his seat in the stands, he received a hug a from Larry and wished the guys luck in their game against the San Francisco 49ers.

Eiler left Arizona with some new friends and an end zone full of memories that he and his family will never forget. Make-A-Wish® North Texas wants to thank the Arizona Cardinals for making North Texas wish kid, Eiler, feel like the champion he truly is!

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George Gagliardi

To see an athlete like Larry Fitzgerald embrace an young boy who sees him as a hero speaks volumes to me. Inevitably it is that quality of generosity and compassion that will make him a hero, in the truest sense of the word -- to all of us. God Bless all who did their best to make this a memorable occasion for the Buck family.